Now in its 7th year, the A3C Hip Hop Festival is a 2-day, 3-night event held annually in Atlanta featuring live performances from some of Hip Hop’s most talented artists. Through the support of our fans, the A3C has grown into the largest Hip Hop Festival in the southeastern US, drawing over 15,000 people in 2010.

he A3C Hip-Hop Festivalis excited to announce updates for the gathering this year. Included in these announcements are artist additions, discussion panels, and a host of new and returning competitions that offer cash prizes, gear, and more. Tickets for the festival are now available, with 3-day passes priced at $40 online and $45 at the door, and daily passes available for $15/day.

Needle To The Record DJ Competition (N2TR) presented by Traktor, returns for its second year at the A3C. Produced by Kimberly Stewartof Absolutely Divine Events, this year’s competition is hosted by Fort Knox of Strong Arm Management and includes a $500 cash prizealong with DJ equipment and products. A few competing spots are still available. Click here for the application and agreement to participate in the battle.

Also making it’s return this year is the iStandard Producer Showcase presented by Native Instruments. Now in its fourth year, the showcase will provide 20-24 up-and-coming producers the opportunity to display their talents for a mix of multi-platinum producers, industry executives, songwriters, and engineers. All participants receive constructive feedback, and the winning producer will receive a prize package complete with production software and hardware from a variety of brands, in addition to interviews and other industry-oriented perks to assist in furthering their craft. Previous iStandard Producer Showcase judges have included such heavyweight producers as The J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League, DJ Toomp, Tha Bizness, Needlz, Don Cannon, and iStandard alumnus Symbolyc One aka S1. Former participants have had the opportunity to work with Rick Ross, 50 Cent, Diddy, and The Clipse. Click here to submit for the iStandard Producer Showcase at the A3C.

In addition to live music performances, the A3C also features breakdance, graphic art, fashion, film, producer showcases, pro audio demonstrations and music industry panels. The event has become a central gathering location for Hip Hop fans as well as MCs, DJs, producers and anyone else looking to advance their careers within the music industry.